Why are they made from 100% natural materials?
Things You Should Know Before Applying It.
“I’ve been looking for a 100% natural DIY Shikkui, but I just can’t find any. Could you make some for me?”
We wanted to respond to this heartfelt request from a customer struggling with chemical sensitivity—and that desire gave birth to Tagawa Shikkui Labs’ DIY shikkui, “NURI² (Nuri Nuri).”
The Reality That DIY Shikkui Is Not 100% Natural
Are those “natural materials” free of chemicals?
“I want to build a home that’s safe for my children,” “I want to create a space where my pets can live comfortably”—driven by these desires, more and more people are choosing “natural plaster/Shikkui.” Plaster/Shikkui is said to regulate humidity, have antibacterial and deodorizing effects, and even purify the air, making it popular as a “breathable wall material.”
However—
Did you know that many of the DIY plaster/shikkui products available on the market actually contain chemicals?
In many cases, products sold for DIY use have chemical additives—such as resins— added to improve workability.
What’s even more problematic is that, unlike food products, there is no “mandatory requirement to list ingredients.”
As a result, consumers cannot tell just by looking at the packaging whether the product is “truly made from natural materials” or “what chemicals it contains.”
In other words, the plaster/shikkui you chose thinking, “It’s a natural material, so it must be safe,” may actually contain chemicals.
Here you'll find shikkui that doesn't cut corners.
We’ve created a product that offers genuine peace of mind—free of synthetic resins and preservatives—and is designed to be easy for anyone to apply.
NURI² was developed based on the following concepts:
・Made exclusively from 100% organic ingredients
・Features a unique formulation that makes it easy to apply, even for beginners
・Contains absolutely no chemical resins or preservatives
“We want to purify the air using natural materials”
“We want to create a living environment where children and pets can feel safe”
For those with such wishes, the time has finally come when you can truly choose “natural shikkui (lime plaster)” in the truest sense of the word.
When you open the lid, there's no sharp, pungent smell—proof that it’s made from “100% natural ingredients.”
Plaster/Shikkui containing resin gives off a sharp, paint-like odor when you open the lid. NURI² uses seaweed-derived adhesive instead of resin, which is the secret behind its mild scent—free of that sharp, pungent odor. The scent of this seaweed binder also fades naturally within a few days after application. It is safe to use even for households with small children or pets that are sensitive to odors.
A wall that keeps working even after it's been painted.
Humidity-Regulating Properties
Shikkui walls contain countless invisible, extremely fine pores. These pores absorb moisture and release it when the air is dry, helping to maintain a comfortable humidity level. Even with a thickness of just 1 to 2 mm, shikkui walls provide humidity-regulating effects that prevent condensation and help alleviate the stuffy, damp feeling caused by indoor clothes drying.
Odor-neutralizing properties
By preventing condensation through the humidity-regulating properties of shikkui, it maintains a healthy environment where mold is less likely to grow. Furthermore, the strongly alkaline antibacterial properties of the raw material—slaked lime—prevent the growth and proliferation of bacteria and viruses that cause various allergies, creating a healthy and refreshing living space.
Antibacterial and Mildew-Resistant
The countless microscopic pores in shikkui walls absorb not only moisture but also various odor-causing compounds, neutralizing them. This system effectively suppresses all kinds of everyday odors that can be bothersome—such as those from pets, cigarettes, kitchen waste, cooking, and damp laundry. Enjoy a natural and comfortable indoor environment without relying on deodorizers or air fresheners.
Non-flammable
Slaked lime is an inorganic substance and a non-combustible material. Authentic shikkui, which contains no chemical additives, is difficult to ignite and has historically been highly regarded for its fire-resistant and fireproof properties—as evidenced by its use in the walls of castles, storehouses, and samurai residences. Furthermore, in 2017, it was certified as a non-combustible material by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
These characteristics make them popular among cat owners. Click here for more details.
Lovely Presentation
I fell in love at first sight with its unique texture, which blends seamlessly not only with traditional Japanese-style rooms but also with Scandinavian-style and modern interiors.
I especially love these stylish walls—with their warmth unique to hand-painted finishes—that change their appearance depending on how the light hits them.
Healthy Environment
I wanted to create a safe living environment with as few chemicals as possible, for the sake of my children and pets.
I thought that 100% organic, natural shikkui would allow our whole family to live together with peace of mind.
Focus on Odor Control and Humidity Regulation
I chose this product hoping it would help with pet and cooking odors, as well as prevent mold during the rainy season.
The air in the room is always crisp and fresh, and it keeps that unpleasant humidity in check, so I’m able to enjoy a comfortable life every day!